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Personal

Being safe requires making wise personal choices that help prevent you from becoming a victim of crime. Follow these tips to be safe while out of the house:

Avoid walking alone at night. If you must walk alone at night, stick to well-travelled and well-lit streets.

Be aware of your surroundings, and walk confidently.

Carry only essential items such as an ID, credit or debit card, and a cell phone. Avoid carrying cash as much as possible.

Dress so you can run or walk easily to avoid an attack.

Do not display target items such as money, cell phones, or Ipods.

Avoid passing close to ambush points such as bushes or tall shrubbery.

Avoid cell phone usage while walking alone unless you are in a safe area.

If you are attacked or confronted by a robber, don’t fight, comply with the suspects demands. Obtain a good description and IMMEDIATELY call the police when you are safe to do so. Do not call friends and family first.

If an attacker tries to take you to another location, do everything you can to avoid being transported somewhere else.

If you have been drinking and are intoxicated, never accept a ride from someone you do not know.